Escarpment Mine on public conservation land, Denniston Plateau. Photo (c) Neil Silverwood.

FMC is deeply concerned about the proposed Fast-Track Approvals Bill, which the government announced in early March.

'The Bill is the biggest assault on democracy and nature that Aotearoa New Zealand has seen in decades. Under the new law, many areas of public conservation land, which belongs to all New Zealanders, will become exposed to economic exploitation excluding a democratic process, or even appropriate scientific and judicial input,' said FMC President Megan Dimozantos.

The lack of consultation the Bill proposes is alarming. If approved, the Bill will give Ministers personal power to approve fast-track development projects on public conservation land. A list of key projects to be fast-tracked is also being introduced and it will most likely include open-cast coal mining and hydro-power generation on public conservation land.

The public conservation estate belongs to all New Zealanders, so we should all have a right to say how our public land is used and managed. FMC is reviewing the Bill and working on the submission. We are also considering options to support clubs with their submissions.

Please read our press release to learn what we know so far and what our plans are.

Te Kuha area, a special reserve near Westport, is feared to be on the list of fast-tracked projects. Photo (c) Neil Silverwood.

Nature and wise management of public conservation land based on democratic values are under a serious threat in Aotearoa New Zealand at the moment. Decreased DOC funding, legislation prioritizing economic development without public consultation, pressures of hydro-power companies and increased costs of backcountry visits are alarming indicators, that our advocacy and work are indispensable.

FMC has been working hard on issues such as protecting Griffin Creek from hydro development and on the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill, as well as advocating for reasonable pricing changes to hut fees.

We stand for the protection of the wild public places we love and for free access to them. Public conservation land belongs to all New Zealanders and we are committed to protecting its natural intrinsic values in perpetuity.

However, our work is not possible without your support. We need your help. If you value what we do, please visit our web page to donate.

Every little helps and we greatly appreciate your support!

FMC is keen to be more closely connected with our member clubs. As part of this, we are hosting a quarterly online Club kōrero where clubs can dial in for an hour to get an update on FMC happenings and ask questions of the Executive.

Join us for our fourth kōrero on Monday, 6th May 2024, at 7 pm. Please RSVP to communications@fmc.org.nz, if you plan to attend. These meetings are becoming popular, so places fill up pretty quickly.

If there are items you would like to see on the agenda for discussion, please let us know so we can ensure we have the right information in front of us to answer your questions.

Biking on Matangi Station. Photo (c) John Robinson.

The Matangi Station, a private property with wonderful recreational opportunities in Central Otago, has recently been put up on the market for sale. FMC is aware of the property's recreational potential, as well as its natural and human history values. We have therefore submitted a letter of recommendation to the Overseas Investment Office, advising how to protect these values in case the OIO becomes involved in the sale.

Should the land be bought by a domestic buyer, Alexandra Mountain Biking Community is committed to working with the new owners, to secure the continuation of the bike park and free public access to it.

It is that time of the year again when we ask all our member clubs to think about nominating a member of their club to join the FMC Executive Board. It is a stimulating body to work with, bringing together people from around Aotearoa New Zealand and dealing with a wide range of outdoor recreation and conservation land related issues.

If you are passionate about outdoor recreation and you support the work we do, if you have time and skills you’d like to contribute – especially in policy, planning, law, or administration – FMC would love to have you on board.

To find out how to submit a nomination and what work on the FMC Executive Board looks like, please visit our web page.

DOC's new pricing will make Great Walks unaffordable for many Kiwi families. Photo (c) Jase Blair.

Earlier in March, FMC was notified by DOC of their intention to remove the Clough Cableway in Arthur's Pass National Park. After our urgent intervention, DOC put the removal of the cableway on pause.

The cableway requires some repair and maintenance. FMC is working with the local DOC team so that the cableway can continue to be maintained as per the requirements of the current Arthur’s Pass National Park Management Plan and continue to provide a safe river crossing for backcountry users.

The cableway was installed on the White River to prevent drownings on a popular three-pass route. A plaque to Allan Clough, a past Canterbury Mountaineering Club member, is a reminder of the dangers that exist on such routes.

Hokitika Tramping Club members exploring their backyard.

Join us in welcoming the Hokitika Tramping Club into our whānau! The Club has officially become the youngest member club of FMC.

As they promise on their web page, their schedule of events is the gateway to unforgettable experiences. Considering the magnificent scenery of the West Coast, we believe them and are delighted to have them on board.

Nau mai, haere mai Hoki team!

“We must closely guard the welfare of our National Parks and Reserves. These should not be regarded as the property of our minister or the government. They belong to the people of today and tomorrow. We must fight for their protection if necessary.” Fred Vosseler – Inaugural FMC President (1932)

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